Vol. 33: FROM THE EDITOR

March 8 is International Women’s Day, a day of solidarity and unity aimed at improving the status of women throughout the world and eradicating discrimination against them. The day was first celebrated at the United Nations in 1975, International Women’s Year, and eventually adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1977. Although it is not well known in Japan, the minister of state for gender equality always issues a message on International Women’s Day.

In this special feature marking this important day, we highlight Japanese women who are active participants in society. In the World Economic Forum’s annual Gender Gap Index, Japan ranked particularly low in 2023, at 125th out of 146 countries, falling from 116th in 2022 and 120th in 2021. Every year, the country’s poor scores in two metrics — economic and political participation — always garner attention. Keep this in mind as you explore our special feature.